• 
• 

The Púca

The Púca is the shapeshifter of the fairy world, taking of the form of a horse, dog, eagle and even a rabbit and it is perhaps the most respected and feared of the fairies. It is said that it can ruin a harvest and farmers of yesteryear, would often leave aside some of the crops for the Púca to keep it onside. Sometimes however, it is also said to be benevolent in nature and give good advice to those who listen. Those who are enticed ride on the back of a Púca, are brought on a merry wild dance but are usually left unharmed. Many places in Ireland are named after the Púca, including Poulaphouca in County Wicklow.

Illustration from an original by Margaret McKenna